The media is discovering the consequences of giving too much power to Jimmy Kimmel, a renowned figure.
In a series of unexpected events, the world of late-night television has found itself at the centre of a political storm. The recent cancellations of popular shows, such as 'The Late Show With Stephen Colbert' and Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show on Disney Plus, have raised eyebrows and sparked debates.
The controversy began when ABC pulled the plug on Jimmy Kimmel's show indefinitely, hours after the head of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Brendan Carr, made vague threats to suspend ABC's broadcast license. This move came amidst declining viewership in late-night TV, but Kimmel and Colbert still ranked among the highest-rated shows among viewers ages 25 to 54.
The cancellations have led some to question the motives behind the decisions. Journalist Jeff Jarvis stated that the cancellation of 'The Late Show With Stephen Colbert' was a political decision, not a business one. This sentiment was echoed by Damon Lindelof, a writer and producer of hit shows, who threatened to stop working with Disney Plus unless Kimmel is reinstated.
The controversy deepened when it was revealed that ABC News settled a defamation lawsuit with President Donald Trump for $16 million in late 2020. Interestingly, CBS paid an almost identical settlement of $16 million to avoid a lawsuit brought by President Trump in May 2021. The CBS settlement was widely seen as a concession by CBS's parent company, Paramount, which was trying to secure a merger with Skydance Media at the time.
Trump has been vocal about his disapproval of late-night TV, suggesting that Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers should also be cancelled due to their low ratings on Disney Plus. He has also made clear that decisions about licensing will be made by FCC chair Brendan Carr, whom he appointed.
Carr has not shied away from expressing his disapproval of certain programs, such as 'The View,' suggesting that his agency should look into whether they still qualify as bona fide news programs. This has led to outraged viewers calling for a boycott of Disney and its properties, including Hulu.
The boycott against Disney is not a new phenomenon. Keith Edwards, a left-leaning commentator, called for a boycott of Disney similar to the one against Target, which is currently struggling with sales and stock issues, and whose CEO is stepping down amid a boycott and other business challenges.
Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen stated that appeasing the bully puts everyone at risk. This sentiment is shared by many, as the line between politics and entertainment continues to blur in this unique and contentious situation.
In the midst of this chaos, the companies claim that canceling 'The Late Show With Stephen Colbert' in July was a purely business decision and not a concession to President Trump. However, the ongoing controversy and public outcry suggest that the issue is far from resolved.
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